Wildebeest Guides

Is anyone else guilty of sharing some table scraps with your dog not knowing if it's good for them or not? Did you know that certain foods that are a part of our everyday diet can actually be great for the pups if given in moderation?

Truth be told, there is a great variety of foods that can benefit your dog’s overall health or specific areas you want to target such as skin and coat, the digestive system, or hips and joints. Superfoods like berries, zucchini, and parsley are excellent sources of fiber, antioxidants, and fatty acids, which can support your dog’s immune system, joints, kidneys and more. Incorporating superfoods into a fun and easy snack for not only yourself but also your dog, will surely help make Beest feel extra special and healthy.

We put together 5 easy and nutritious recipes for you and Beest to try together this summer, with a lot of the ingredients already being in your kitchen pantry!

1. Parfaits

• 1/3 cup plain, unsweetened regular fat or greek yogurt
• 1 apple slice, finely diced
• 1 mango slice, finely diced
• 3 slices of bananas
• 2 strawberries, finely diced
• 3 blueberries
• 3 raspberries
• Drizzle of Honey
• Human Only -- add granola and almonds
• Layer together fruit and yogurt in a small bowl and top-off with honey

This easy recipe is great for your dog's gut health as it contains greek yogurt, bananas, and honey which are all helpful probiotics to keep in good bacteria and clean out the bad bacteria.

2. Tomato-Carrot Soup

• 1 (15-ounce) can diced organic tomatoes
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and cut into 4 to 5 slices
• 1/2 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 quart water
• 3 medium carrots cut into 1/4 x 2-inch sticks
• 12 grape-size tomatoes, halved
• 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus 5 whole basil leaves, cut into chiffonade for garnish
• Pinch of Celtic sea salt
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Humans Only – add garlic + onions to a separate bowl for more flavor 

1. Add tomatoes, carrots, potato, lentils, and water to a large pot, bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce to simmer and cook for 25 minutes, or until lentils and sweet potatoes are soft.
2. Purée the soup until silky smooth (immersion blender or food processor).
3. Blanch carrot sticks in boiling water until barely soft. Shock in ice water and reserve for garnish. 
4. Add grape tomatoes, chopped basil, and salt, stir, and cook for 3 minutes more. Stir in the olive oil.
5. Garnish the top of the soup with the blanched carrot sticks, sprinkle a few “ribbons” of basil over the carrot sticks, and serve.

This tasty tomato-carrot soup will not only please your pups' taste buds but also give them a boost of superfood benefits. Carrots are a great source of vitamin A that will support eye health, boost the immune system and give your dog a healthier skin and coat. Tomatoes (when given in small amounts) are great for your dog’s digestive system and have potassium and vitamin C. Lentils are another great source of minerals that can help aid in diabetes and naturally boost energy, and sweet potatoes are high in fiber which can help lower the risk of heart disease and aid with healthy poops.

3. Charcuterie Board

• Sliced cucumbers
• Sliced apples
• Sliced strawberries
• Sliced apples
• Handful of berries (blueberries, raspberries)
• Thinly sliced cheddar cheese
• Dollop of peanut butter (sugar free) or greek yogurt, for dip
• Add all your cut fruits and vegetables to a board or tray. Place your dips on the board to your liking and serve.
• Dog Only – add your Beests favorite treats

Got leftover fruits and veggies in the fridge? Put them together and make a fun charcuterie board for you and your dog to share at home or at the park. Fruits and vegetables are packed with essential nutrients to keep you and your dog’s immune system happy and healthy.

4. Chia Banana Smoothie

• 12 oz cold filtered water
• 1-2 handfuls of washed organic baby spinach
• 1 sliced banana (frozen for thicker consistency)
• 1 chopped green apple (remove core, stem, seeds)
• ½ tsp chia seeds
• Blend all ingredients together and serve

This smoothie recipe is a good way to deliver a boost of energy to your pup (especially senior dogs) as chia seeds have 3 times more Omega 3 fatty acids compared to salmon, and boasts 20% protein.

5. Popcorn Balls

• ½ cup of peanut butter (sugar free)
• ½ all-natural stovetop popcorn
• 1 tsp olive oil
• ⅓ tsp of all natural honey

1. Pop kernels in olive oil
2. Mix in peanut butter and honey until popcorn is coated
3. Shape into balls and then set for for a few minutes, then serve

Popcorn alone actually contains great minerals like magnesium, fiber, and zinc. Feeding popcorn with no extra additives like butter, salt, or oils, and given in moderation can provide important nutrients for your dog. Adding other healthy superfoods like peanut butter, to help maintain healthy muscles, eyes, and skin, and honey, that is full of anti-fungal properties to reduce allergies and inflammation, will transform your healthy snack into a superfuel filled with loads of nutrition.

We don’t always think about preparing food to share with our dogs. But just imagine the excitement from your pup when they realize you’ve just made something not just for yourself but them as well! And the joy you would feel when you can safely share the same food you’re eating with your best friend! Our advice is to start by researching and knowing what raw ingredients are safe and toxic for your pup. Then you can come up with some of your own creative recipes around those ingredients that would be enticing for both human AND pup.

To find more foods and their specific health benefits, The Farmer’s Dog Digest mentions a handful in their “Superfoods In Your Kitchen” article. And bookmark this guide from us and come back for easy, healthy recipes and inspiration anytime you want to bond with your Beest over shared food.

Happy Snacking!

Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!

April is Earth Month and we want to bring awareness and reminders to making more earth-friendly choices as dog parents and helping reduce our environmental impact where we can. Beests add a lot of good to the world, but between waste, food and pet gear, the greenhouse gasses emitted just by providing for our furry friends can be significant.

The good news is, we’ve been digging into the research and we’ve found lots of ways we can help lessen the environmental strain of having pets. Making small changes and choices every day can make a big impact on the world we live in. Here are the most useful tips we’ve found on being a more earth-friendly pet parent:

Scoop That Poop

It’s about more than just being considerate of your neighbors! Dog poop can be toxic to other animals, water supplies, and even humans. Because of the legions of bacteria it contains, pet waste is a leading source of nutrient and bacteria pollution in urban streams and waterways according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Stormwater can pick up pet waste that pet owners leave on the ground and deposit it directly into nearby streams, lakes and rivers. Pet waste in waterbodies can make people and animals sick, promote weed and algae growth, and damage the health of the ecosystem in and around the water. 

Because of its hefty environmental impact, keeping outdoor spaces poop-free is one of the easiest but best things you can do as a responsible dog parent. Let’s not forget that using the right type of poop bags also matters. Did you know, one regular plastic poop bag can take about 500 years to break down in a landfill? Educating ourselves about products we use every day such as poop bags, and knowing what they are made out of can help prevent harm to the earth, check out our earth-friendly 100% Biodegradable Poop Bags and blog post, Guide to Poop Bags & Dispensers to learn more on the topic.

DIY Doggie Treats

The environmental impact of producing, packing, and shipping store-bought treats can add up, not to mention the post-consumer waste comes afterwards as well. A great way to cut down on this is by making your own dog treats - frozen or baked - out of tasty ingredients you already have around the house. This cuts down on packaging waste and ensures your Beest is only eating healthy, natural treats, too. If you’re like us, you may have some empty store-bought treat packaging that can be reused for snacks or homemade treats. :)

Consider Their Chow

While some dogs have dietary restrictions that prevent them from eating certain proteins, if your dog doesn’t have protein allergies, swapping their beef consumption for chicken or pork can have a significant impact on carbon emissions. Beef production emits almost five times’ the greenhouse gasses of chicken or pork, so that’s a simple switch that adds up fast! Also think about switching your brand of pet food and finding a more eco-friendly option. There is a broad range and growing number of pet food companies today who take sustainability seriously and still cater to keeping your Beesty well nourished with clean ingredients. We like this insightful list put together by Sustainable Jungle, including a DIY option at the end!

Go Green With Grooming

When deciding what cleaning products to use on your beest, consider using shampoos, conditioners, and sprays that are biodegradable and free of harsh chemicals. Not only will this help keep your Beest’s skin and coat healthier, but it will also keep our waterways clean and clear. Happy Bond’s: Why eco-friendly products are a better choice lists what to avoid while shopping for green grooming products. You can also try some homemade natural solutions like making your own dog shampoo with oatmeal or mixing olive oil and vinegar to help your pups dry skin.

Quality Over Quantity

When it comes to buying gear and supplies for Beest, there are plenty of options on the market to choose from. However, making a choice with longevity in mind can have a big impact on the environment. Textile manufacturing is one of the world’s biggest sources of pollution, so fast fashion — for humans and dogs — has a big impact. When deciding what to buy, consider gear and brands that put quality forward, therefore will last a long time instead of a season. We, for one, not only make timeless gear with the intention of serving you and Beest for a lifetime, but also provide free repairs and other awesome warranty perks on your existing Wildebeest product so you can get the most out of it for as long as you want and need.

These choices may seem small, but if every pet parent keeps them in mind as they go about their routine, they can add up to a larger positive change! As a product company, we’re making small changes to reduce our environmental impact, such as, slowly shifting into using recycled raw materials to make our products, reducing packaging waste and of course, continuing to support you and Beestie through your post-consumer journey with us via Wild4Life Warranty. And now as a member of 1% For The Planet we’re directly giving back to the global community fighting for positive change and a better future for all.

We hope you’ll join us in the efforts to become more Earth-Friendly today! Happy Walking.

Have you ever been to or even heard of a Pack Walk? For those who may not know, a pack walk is getting your own pack (you + your pups) together with another pack(s) (someone else + their pups) and taking a walk or a hike together. As of recently, pack walks have been popular as it can help with confidence building and socialization in your dog and are great for all types of dogs in any stage of training.

Pack Mentality

The definition of the word PACK is “a group of wild animals, especially wolves, living and hunting together” (according to Google) and with dogs being direct descendants of wolves, they are pack animals by nature. In every pack there is always an alpha who is considered the leader and protector of the pack, which is what your dog probably sees you as since the day you brought them home. As you’ve fed, trained, and given them access to your home and control many aspects of their lives, you as their human are considered their alpha or pack leader. This type of dynamic and structure help create a healthy pack mentality in your Beest and it’s no secret that they thrive when given direction and purpose. Pack walks are a great way to practice this dynamic in a collective way.

Organizing A Pack Walk

Whether you're wanting to have some quality time with your circle of friends or connect with other dog lovers in your community, we’ve put together a quick and easy guide to help you get started on organizing your own pack walk!

1. Decide on a date.
2. Pick a dog friendly location and consider how difficult or accessible the walk or hike will be for you and others joining the pack walk.
3. Share your pack walk details 2-3 weeks before the actual date and confirm with everyone who will be attending.
4. Designate a meet up spot and make sure everyone who is joining has a map or knows the trail / walking route.
5. A couple days before the pack walk: send out a reminder to those who've confirmed, including rules, meet-up location, time and weather updates.
6. Day of the walk: bring your list of participants, check everyone in and take a head count of your pack. Providing name tags for dogs + humans is a nice touch!

• Leash: 4ft length is great for keeping Beestie close especially if you have a big pack or are going on a tight trail. 6ft length is fine if you have room to spread out.
• Comfortable and secure harness or collar
• Poop Bags, to leave the trail how you found it
• Treats for you & Beest + Treat Pouch for carrying ‘em!
• Water bottle + portable bowl
• Proper attire for the trail and weather conditions, e.g. hiking shoes, windbreaker, backpack, etc.
• Portable charger, just in case!

• Dogs attending the walk should always be leashed and well distanced from others
• No nose-to-nose or butt sniffing during the walk so your pup knows that it isn’t playtime
• Reactive or dogs who are vocal should walk towards the back of the pack
• Have FUN! It's hard work hosting a pack walk, but so worth it. Remember the goal is to help train, exercise, socialize and have lots of fun!

Our friends, dog mom Lauren + her Lab mix, Boomi @boomibringsthings hosted Wildebeest’s very first pack walk in the Bay Area and shared why they loved putting one together so much,

The best thing about organizing a pack walk is meeting so many new people in your area that you may not have. It's so different talking to people online vs real life. I always leave a pack walk feeling so high from having a great walk and meeting amazing dog parents in the community. For first time organizers, try to at least say hi to everyone who is there. Introduce yourself, and thank them for coming!

@boomibringsthings

Finding A Pack Walk Near You

If you're looking to join a pack walk instead of hosting one, a good place to start is searching and joining some Facebook groups in your city and neighborhood. Social media and neighborhood apps are a great way to find out what’s happening in your community and hashtags can be useful in broadening your search too. Sometimes local brands or businesses in the pet space are hosting pack walks – we did! – and will post event updates on their social media. You could always ask other pet parents, dog trainers or walkers who may have knowledge in pack walks happening in your community as well.

Now You Know How!

Pack walks can be such a positive and supportive community activity for both pups and humans. What’s better than to be outside exploring new surroundings with your Beestie and sharing the experience with other like-minded packs? We highly recommend pack walks for all dog parents… especially if you’ve never done one before. It just might help you become a tighter, better pack as you build more confidence and bond with your Beest.

Happy Walking!

Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!

Doggy hygiene is one of the top pet parent responsibilities when it comes to keeping your dog healthy and clean. Just like how being on top of your hygiene and grooming is a part of maintaining good health for humans, the same goes for our pets too. We put together 5 tips for dog parents to add to their routine to help upkeep and improve their pet care.

1. Giving Regular Baths & Brushing

Bathing and grooming can keep your dog from experiencing possible skin infections, harmful bacteria, or dull and greasy fur. Make sure to give pup a bath regularly -- for long haired dogs, every 4-6 weeks and for short haired dogs, every 1-3 months is recommended. If they get especially dirty after the rain or an adventure, rinse off the dirt as needed. Bathing too often can result in loss of natural oils in the body which can cause an imbalance or irritation in your dog’s skin, so make a bath routine based on how often your dog needs it, using products that are designed specifically for pets. Brushing pup’s fur can also prevent skin issues and is recommended to do daily or every few days to prevent matting, remove dead hair, and distribute natural oils for a healthy coat.

2. Keeping Up With Dental Hygiene

Dental disease is quite prevalent in dogs and can lead to other health problems. Signs of periodontal disease such as gingivitis in dogs are commonly seen by the age of three, beginning with bad breath and tartar build up. It’s recommended that dogs get their first teeth cleaning right around 2-3 years of age and routine cleaning every year. As a responsible dog parent, implement a daily tooth brushing routine as early as possible to help maintain pup’s dental hygiene long-term. You can also look into other dental disease prevention methods to find what’s best for your pup. See our Guide to Doggy Dental Care for more in-depth information and tips on the topic.

3. Wiping Pup’s Paws After Walks

Clean paws will ensure your dog can walk, play, and live comfortably. After your walk or hike, remember to wipe and check pup’s body and paws for debris (grass, twigs, foxtails) that might have gotten stuck as it could result in discomfort, open wounds and even infection. Wiping your dog’s paws with dog-safe grooming wipes gets rid of any bad germs picked up from your walk, helping keep both you & your dog’s immune systems healthy AND your home interior clean.

4. Cleaning Pup’s Eyes & Tear Stains

What are tear stains and eye goop? It’s a discharge that your dog’s body produces to flush out any dirt or allergies in the air. Depending on breed and lifestyle this can vary from texture, fluid, and color. It’s recommended to clean around your dog’s eyes daily (or as often as they need be) using a warm washcloth and gently removing any goop or discharge. Tear stains can appear in pink and brownish color below the eyes and are usually more visible on pups with lighter colored fur. Treating tear stains may require a more specific cleaning routine and products like powder, eye combs, eye cleaning pads, or chews. Tear stains and eye goop are common and manageable in dogs but they can lead to bacteria growth and infection, or they can be signs of other health problems. So it’s good to stay on top of any changes and maintain an overall cleanliness around pup’s eyes.

5. Washing Pup’s Bowls & Toys

This one is something that some of us may not think about often. Especially your dog’s toys… how often do you clean them? But the truth is, the food & water bowls and toys come in contact with pup’s mouth and snout all the time. And their saliva & constant wetness make for perfect breeding grounds for germs that you don’t want to spread around your home & family. Dog bowls should be washed every day if not after every meal. Hand-washing or using the dishwasher are the best ways to get the job done, and remember to be mindful of the cleaning products you use to keep your dog safe. For the same reason, toys should also be cleaned regularly and it’s recommended that they be well washed and sanitized at least once a month. If your pup has a favorite toy that goes everywhere with them, then cleaning it more often would be ideal and make sure to let it dry completely. Most plush toys can be thrown in the washing machine with baking soda and vinegar without detergent to sanitize them naturally. Silicone toys may be dishwashed, but check the manufacturer washing instructions.

Adding these easy tips into your dog parenting regimen will not only improve your pup’s overall health but also keep them happy and loving their best life for many years to come. Dogs may not be human but they are just like us when it comes to wanting to feel clean, comfortable, and healthy each day. And it’s up to us humans to provide that for our best friends.

Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!

The beginning of the New Year is a great time to implement some new healthier habits, not just for you but also for our pups. If we’re being honest, we’re all a little guilty of letting life, whether it be work, school, social, or family, come before other things we say we’re going to do, but never get around to… such as training our dogs. Luckily, it’s never too late to start getting into a routine and adding some easy 5-10 minute training to your day to not only help improve your dogs manners & skills but also make that bond between you and Beest stronger. Here are a few goals we recommend to start off the Year right with your pups!

1. Walking Etiquette

Whether you're just starting out with a new puppy or simply wanting to improve your dog’s walking manners, walking etiquette can always be improved and is one of the most common things dog owners struggle with. Start by taking a look at your gear… do we have the proper tools for a pleasant walk? Do you use a collar or a harness? Do you have the right leash for city walking or do you need one with more length for outdoorsy adventures? Is your pup comfy and well-fitted in their gear? Finding the right type, size and fit of gear for YOUR pup can make a huge difference in how your Beest walks, check out our harnesses or leashes to help get you started. Once you have the right gear, research some techniques to incorporate on what you want to work on to improve your walks, and don’t forget to bring treats along. If you don’t know where to start, here are some things you can work on to become a better canine citizen: pulling, eating food off the ground, lunging/barking at people or other dogs, biting the leash.

2. Working on Reactivity

Many dogs are or become reactive because of a trigger or traumatic situation that they have encountered. This can be a big source of stress for not only the pups, but also their humans. The best way to work on reactivity is to grab your treat pouch, fill it with a high value reward that your dog loves (such as cheese, meat, your dog’s favorite treat) to grab their attention and break their focus on that trigger. If your dog isn’t food motivated, try a toy or another reward that is high value and don’t forget to praise them plenty when they succeed to complete your positive-reinforcement training. Overcoming reactivity is not easy and may take a long time but it is definitely possible with patience and consistent training!

3. Going on Outdoor Adventures

Make it a goal to get outdoors more with your pup. Find parks or trails in your local area that you have yet to explore and go adventure with your Beest. We’re all a little guilty of wanting to rest on our free days and sticking to our same routine with our pups, but getting out and exploring a new place is a great way to bond and create memories together. Don’t forget to bring a portable bowl to keep your Beestie hydrated and pack all your essentials for the day!

4. Easing Separation Anxiety / Crate Training / Being Home Alone

Now that most of us are heading back to the office for work or attending more social events / gatherings, our pandemic pups can have some separation anxiety with you gone. Overcoming separation anxiety is a great goal to work on as it can cause other negative behaviors and big stress for your pup (and you too!). Crate training can be a helpful method for your beest to feel safe and comfortable. Try crating your pup for short periods of time, gradually increasing the time frames and working towards you not being with them for longer periods of time. Little bits of daily training on this can show big improvements and most importantly help reduce stress for your pup. For more tips on this, check out our guide for Post Pandemic Dog Tips.

5. Learning New Tricks

New Pups or not, it’s never too late to teach your dog’s something new. The amazing thing about our furry friends is that they love to learn and are very capable of being taught anything when you stay consistent and are patient with them. Refresh them with the basics: Sit, Stay, Down. And then break down the trick you want to accomplish in steps. Your dog will have those tricks down in no time and then you can implement newer tricks.

Training is one of the most rewarding activities you and your dog can engage in together and it only helps strengthen your bond! We recommend setting some training goals that are specific to your dog and doing research or seeking help from a professional trainer to help achieve those specific goals. Keep in mind that behavioral changes don’t always happen overnight so remember to stay patient, positive and consistent, and implement your training into a daily routine to get the best results. For more training tips + tricks, check out our other blog posts including the Guide to Successful Dog Training.

Happy Training!

Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!

Holiday shopping for the special pup in your life but not sure what would make the paw-fect gift? Don’t sweat it, Wildebeest’s got you covered with gift ideas to make any pup feel the magic of the holidays.

One Size Fits All

No measuring required, these items come in one perfect size that serves all Beesties big and small – p.s. they are compact enough to fluff any stocking!

• Funston Baggie
• Montara Pop Up Bowl
• Biodegradable Poop Bags
• Alamo Treat Pouch

Home For The Holidays

Welcoming a new member to the family this holiday season? These everyday essentials are perfect for a new Beestie + Pup-parent to be, or those who are just looking to refresh their gear closet with quality items!

• Funston Starter Kit
• Custom ID Tag
• Biodegradable Poop Bags
• All Weather Jacket

For Dog Parents

Alamo Treat Pouch is great for any Dog Mom or Dog Dad looking to train and treat on the go. With a magnetic closure that secures treats and some extra room for a few personal items, it makes for a great tool for any dog parent. If you're looking for more room, Farallon Field Day Bag is not only stylish but also is a versatile day bag for any adventure with or without pup. If you happen to know their preferred color choice, don’t forget to browse our gear by color!

• Alamo Treat Pouch
• Farallon Field Day Bag
• Shop By Color – Black, Olive, Navy, Turquoise, Fuchsia, Red

Beestie's Bestsellers

Our fan faves that are sure-fire crowd pleasers!

• Alamo Treat Pouch
• Funston Leash + Baggie
• Linden No Pull Harness

Gift Cards

Still not sure what gear to give your special Beest or fellow dog lover? Gift them the option to choose what to get and send it to them virtually anytime!

Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!

Three day weekends are great, especially when you have a great companion to spend it with, right?! But sometimes we get overwhelmed or aren’t quite sure what to do other than your typical weekend activities. Keeping things fresh and changing up our routines every now and then are fun and necessary to grow and keep that bond with our beests.

We put together a list of fun activities to help make the most out of an enjoyable long weekend with your dog. Whether you plan to spend it outdoors adventuring or keep it simple and stay close to home, we have something for everyone and you can easily include your friends, family AND their dogs too!

1. Take A Day Trip To Somewhere New

A long weekend is the best time to plan a day trip to somewhere new that you and your beest can explore, make memories and bond together. Plan for some dog-friendly stops along the way or be spontaneous on your adventure, making stops as you go. You can start a bucket list just for you & Beestie and check one off this coming long weekend! New places and experiences with your pup will create a stronger bond while also stimulating them in a healthy way with all the new smells to sniff and explore.

2. Play Tourist In Your Own Town

If hitting the road feels like too much, how about exploring the dog-friendly places in your own town? From neighborhood restaurants and watering holes to parks, public landmarks and walking paths that you haven’t been to before, planning a day to scope out different nooks and crannies and perhaps discovering your new favorite dog-friendly spot in town could be a fun and engaging way to spend a holiday weekend with your pup. If you’re mostly going on foot, don’t forget to keep pup on leash and pack some treats, water and water bowl too.

3. Go For A Splash

If you and your dog love the water, try spending the day out adventuring in it. Grab your waterproof gear and go swimming at the beach / lake or try a boat ride with your pup – canoeing, kayaking, motorboating, surfing or stand-up paddleboarding are all dog friendly. Just make sure your dog is equipped with a life jacket and is comfortable on a boat.

4. Make DIY Frozen Dog Treats

The best part about warm sunny days is the cool refreshing snacks you get to enjoy. Another perk, they are super easy to make with a few simple ingredients that you most likely already have at home. DIY frozen treats are also a great way to track what your pup is eating AND keep pup and yourself stimulated, engaged and entertained. For some easy at homemade treats recipes, check out our Frozen Treats Guide to get you started.

5. Stay At Home Activities

If staying in is more your scene, a long weekend is perfect for exploring some indoor activities with your dog to recharge. Decorating and reorganizing for the next coming season is always fun, start swapping out your summer dog gear with your fall ones. You could work on some tricks or do nosework for a more productive activity, or there’s always the good old game of tug or fetch if you need to turn things up! Doing some “doga” meditations and stretches, and painting together can be relaxing or you could have a completely lazy day lounging around the house with your dog. Staying at home doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, get creative and do things you both love.

6. Work On Dog Training

There is no such thing as spending too much time on training. Whether they are puppies, adults, or even seniors, training sessions are always beneficial for you and your dog, even if they are refreshers. Training not only helps our pups become better petizens but it also stimulates them and builds bond with us humans. Grab some high value treats along with a great training treat pouch and find somewhere safe outside to do your session. Giving your dog a change of scenery is a great way to work through distractions and helps build their confidence. You can also try signing up for training, agility classes or other dog-friendly sports.

7. Backyard Picnic With Fur-ends

Finding dog friendly places in your area isn’t always easy, especially if it’s a holiday weekend, so why not throw your own dog friendly picnic and invite some friends? This is a great way to get creative and have fun relaxing together with friends and their dogs. The easiest part is you don’t need much for a good picnic in your backyard or a park – get some blankets, good snacks for people and pups (make it a potluck where everyone brings one item), water and of course, and toys for your pup to keep busy.

As Labor day weekend approaches it also means it's the last of days of enjoying long days in the sun before fall / winter arrives and days get chilly. Weekends are great for running errands or relaxing after a long work week and we may not always get to spend as much of our weekend time with our pups as we’d like, so it’s important to take advantage of the long weekend and do some stimulating activities with our beesties and spend quality with them.

Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!

What exactly is mental health? It’s the well-being of our mental state which affects how we think, feel, and act. According to the World Health Organization there has been a 13% rise in mental health troubles within the last decade. These days especially with the pandemic, excessive social media consumption, climate change and other global happenings around the world, mental health issues are more prevalent in our society than ever. Mental fatigue can cause having low energy, pulling away from usual activities, eating or sleeping too much / too little, or feeling stress and anxiety, and can lead to more severe symptoms that affect our quality of life.

Many of us have turned to animal companions, such as adopting a new dog or cat to help cope with our mental struggles. Scientific research and studies over the years have proven incredible mental health benefits of the human-animal bond. Animals can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression in people, but they can also suffer from feeling emotions and absorbing our energy. It’s important to check in on our mental state every now and then and address it in a healthy way so we can not only take care of ourselves but also live long, happy lives with our animals together. Here are some actions you can implement for a better mental health and lifestyle for you & beest.

1. Keep Active

Exercising is a great way to relieve stress and improve your mood overall. Find an active activity, get those endorphins pumping, and do it with your dog. Get outside and go on a walk or run*, take a hike or a bike ride, do some yoga in your favorite park, or go to an outdoor gym. Staying active & spending quality time together will keep you & pup feeling energetic, sleeping better and in shape physically and mentally.

* A recent study done by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that running for 15 minutes a day or walking for an hour reduces the risk of major depression by 26%.

2. Take A Break

Whether it’s a break from work, study or personal project, it’s important to step away from whatever we are doing and take a breather. Step outside and look at the sky and take in fresh air, have a play or petting session with your dog, or sit in your favorite part of the house together in silence for a nice break. Social media is a huge outlet for many of us today and yes, there’s no harm in a funny meme or cat video here and there but we can probably all agree that too much social media exposure (even the dog world) can sometimes have a negative effect on our mental health. Taking meaningful breaks from our phones & media can also help clear our heads, minds & perspective.

3. Share Gratitude 

Grounding yourself and taking time to appreciate where you are in life sometimes get overlooked. Don’t forget to give yourself credit for how far you have come. Create some time in your day to reflect and share what you're thankful for in your life. You can spend 5-10 mins to either journal your gratitude or meditate on it daily. Practice saying out loud what you’re thankful for as it can be a great type of therapy that calms and relaxes your mind. And share these affirmations with the best listener you have, your dog! :)

4. Do What You Love

Spend time doing the things that bring you zen and joy and come up with creative ways to incorporate your dog into those activities / hobbies. If you love to cook, bake some homemade treats for your dog, if you love doing puzzles, get one for your pup so they can work on theirs while you solve yours, or if you love to playing music, create a cozy lounge spot for pup so they can listen. Carving out time to engage in the hobbies we love gives us something to look forward to and distracts / redirects us from stress, worry, comparison and our unhealthy emotions that we experience.

5. Connect With Others

The saying “we are who we surround ourselves with” is a positive reminder that we should make the effort to be around others who reinforce positivity and light in us. Find ways to connect with like-minded people or look for new people to build connections with. Strong, healthy social connections are important for mental health as they not only reduce anxiety and depression but they also build self-esteem. For us dog people, we can find and confide in fellow dog parents by going to your local dog park, joining meet-ups / community groups, or checking out social events or venues that are dog friendly.

Mental health has become an important social topic in recent years and we’re thankful for the increasing awareness, open discussions and resources available today. It can however be overwhelming for those who are experiencing mental struggles to know where to start and what to do exactly to feel better. A great first step is to do what makes us happiest and for a lot of us pet parents, we can always look to start with our animals. But rather than solely relying on our pets to alleviate our mental problems, we can think about how to get them involved whether it’s making new connections through them or staying active and spending time outdoors together.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues and are seeking help, please visit MentalHealth.gov for more information and resources.

Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your beest. We want to be there every step of the way, with our gear & pom pom’s in tow, supporting you & beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship. SHOP OUR GEAR >>>

At least once or twice in our journey as dog parents, especially in the beginning, we’ve all stopped and wondered, why has nobody told me about this before? From unexpected trips to the vet because your dog got into something they weren’t supposed to have their nose in, to dealing with pest infestations, and random happenings in between, sometimes figuring things out the hard way just feels like a normal part of being a dog parent. Though it’s hard to be prepared for every little situation that can go wrong with our beests, we thought it would be helpful to put together 5 common but important topics that every dog parent should know about.

1. Dental Hygiene 

Taking care of your dog’s teeth and gums as early as possible will prevent a lot of health complications as your dog gets older. Dental disease is one of the most common illnesses in dogs which can cause other health complications such as organ failure, eye issues and tooth loss. It’s recommended that you begin taking care of your pups’ teeth early on or as early as possible. If not taken care of regularly, early signs of dental disease are bad breath, excessive drooling, discolored teeth, or inflamed / bleeding gums and can be seen as early as 2-3 years of age in your dog. As your dog gets to their senior years, dental hygiene becomes one of the key factors attributing to life span and health complications. Most dog parents wished they would have been more proactive and educated on preventive action in their dog’s early years. Our doggy dental guide has more information and tips on ways you can start taking action.

2. Foxtail

Foxtail is small sharp prickly clusters of grass that pops up once Spring hits, and it can linger around up until Summer. It is found in tall grass areas, hiking trails, open fields / parks, alongside the road and also sidewalks. Little pieces of foxtail can get stuck on pup’s skin or in their paws and sometimes be inhaled through their nose while they’re sniffing around, triggering sneezing or coughing fits later on. Foxtail can cause serious pain, discomfort, and sometimes bleeding or infection so we recommend inspecting your pup, even if they have no symptoms at all, after every walk / adventure. Check your pup’s face, ears and paws first, then inspect large fur areas such as neck, stomach, and hips. If you suspect foxtail injuries in your dog, look up how to remove or treat them safely (combing it out or using tweezers or your fingers) or call your vet for advice. But some precautions you can take are avoiding tall grass areas or protecting your pup with paw booties or face mask. No one ever tells you about Foxtail injuries and some of us unfortunately have had to learn the hard way. It’s important to remember that educating ourselves (and fellow pet parents) can help prevent these stressful situations and keep our dogs safe. Remember to curb your pup during these warmer seasons and check your neighborhood / hiking trails for any Foxtails as the seasons start to change.

3. Emergency Bag & Plan

Harsh weather changes, the global pandemic and natural disasters like wildfires or floods are more common now than ever. Most of us have some sort of plan for ourselves or family put into place for those emergency situations, but a lot of us forget that we also need one specifically for our pups. Emergency situations can be overwhelming and chaotic for a dog at any age, so making sure you have an action plan and an emergency bag ready will prevent a stress filled environment for everyone. Do research on evacuation locations and pet hospitals in your area that are dog safe. Also put together a “go bag” or emergency bag kit just for your pet, including extra food, medication, a first-aid kit and extra gear. Our guide to making your own Emergency Kit lists what important things should be in your kit to help prepare for any situation.

4. Senior Care & Preventatives

As humans, most of us take a lot of early prevention so we can live a longer and healthier life and same goes for your beests. Being a dog owner is a lifelong commitment which means that we are also responsible for our pup’s when they get to their senior years. We may not be experienced enough or completely prepared to care for a senior dog but taking precautions and practicing good habits can steer us away from serious health complications later on. Feeding a healthy diet, giving supplements and proper vitamins, keeping a strong immune system and scheduling regular vet visits are some ways to keep beests healthy. Once your dog hits the senior age (as early as 6-7) making sure you make adjustments to accommodate their needs is important, such as taking shorter walks / exercises often so as not to physically overexert your dog, avoiding hard foods / treats that their stomach might not be able to digest anymore, or using steps / ramps to help them get on and off the couch or car as their joints and muscles are not as strong as they used to be. Our senior care guide lists more helpful tips on how to better take care of your senior beesties and what you can start implementing early on.

5. Fleas & Ticks

Warmer weather seasons are great for adventures but it also means pests like fleas and ticks are out looking for hosts like your pups to feed off of. 1 in 7 dogs can carry fleas which are tiny insects that feed off your dog’s blood and cause them to intensely scratch and cause severe discomfort. Fleas can also carry bacteria and dirt that can cause your dog to get other health complications. Some signs that your dog might have fleas are if they are scratching, licking, or biting. Another sign might be if you see red bumps on the skin under their fur or if you have small red itchy bites. If not taken care of, fleas can quickly reproduce and infest your home and dog which can take several months to get rid of. We recommend researching a preventative that works for your budget and can be easily added to your routine. Topical and oral medications are available which you can give your dog regularly, along with natural remedies such as lavender plants and apple cider vinegar spray to keep pests away.

Ticks are similar to fleas but are mainly found outdoors and they prefer to latch onto humans and pets. They are typically bigger than fleas and can carry more bacteria than fleas when they latch on to a host. The best way to remove a tick is with tweezers in an upward and steady motion, it's also important to clean the area and the tools you are using. Once the tick is removed dispose of it in alcohol or a sealed container, or flush it down the toilet, and remember to never crush it with your fingers.

If you do believe your dog has a flea infestation or is suffering from excessive tick bites ask your vet about a plan of action that is safe for your dog.

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There is no handbook for being the perfect dog owner, but sharing first hand experiences and constantly educating ourselves is a step in the right direction in making sure we give our pups the happiest & healthiest life. You can never be prepared enough for situations like a flea infestation or a natural disaster but as long as you make a quick plan of action, stay calm and ensure your dog knows they'll be okay…you’ll be able to get through any situation together. 

P.S. Please share this post with a fellow dog parent !!

Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your beest. We want to be there every step of the way, with our gear & pom pom’s in tow, supporting you & beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship. 
SHOP OUR GEAR >>>